Police today warned drivers not to leave vehicles unattended with keys in the ignition while de-icing them, after a car was stolen in Upper Tadmarton today.

At about 8.50am, a silver Mazda RX8 was stolen from outside a property in Main Road.

The vehicle had been left unattended by its owner, who had gone back inside their house while the engine was left running to de-ice the car.

PC Richie Iwanoff, of the Cherwell priority crime team, said: “People should never leave a running vehicle unattended, even in the mornings when de-icing them.

“Resist the temptation to go inside while your vehicle warms up, as leaving your cars like this makes it too easy for thieves.

“I would also like to appeal for any witnesses who might have seen this incident to come forward and speak with us.

“Perhaps someone saw this car in the area after it was taken? Or may know who was responsible for this theft?”

Anyone with information can contact PC Iwanoff via the 24-hour Thames Valley Police Enquiry Line on 0845 8 505 505, or alternatively you can contact the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.